Femina has been capturing the essence of the Indian woman for 58 years now, and has evolved with her over the years bringing the world to her doorstep. And now, here's your chance to get the dope on everything--from celebrities and fashion, beauty and wellness, to lifestyle and relationships--delivered directly to your inbox. Plus expert tips, polls, contests and other interactive articles and a whole lot more!

Reasons why you should be eating more popcorn

One of our easiest (and probably favourite) ways to enjoy the goodness of corn is by whipping up a bowl of freshly-popped, organic popcorn. Not only does it make for a movie-theatre staple but also the best accompaniment for Netflix nights. You may not have heard, but this snack actually has a host of health benefits. Here are five reasons why this favourite should definitely make it onto your healthy snack list.

Weight-loss snack

Popcorn is sugar-free, fat-free and also low in calories. A small cup of popcorn is said to contain only 30 calories. Furthermore, the fibre content in popcorn makes you feel full and thus helps keep hunger pangs at bay.

Rich in anti-oxidants

Free radicals do a lot more damage than cancer; they have been closely linked to a number of heart diseases, and other age-related problems such as blindness, muscle weakness, Alzheimer’s disease, hair loss, etc. Popcorn, on the other hand, is loaded with anti-oxidants called polyphenols, and like all other anti-oxidants, this too helps combat the effects of free radicals.

Ensures a healthy gut

As popcorn is a whole grain, it is a good source of fibre, minerals, complex carbohydrates, B complex vitamins, and also vitamin E. The high fiber content helps in the proper secretion of digestive juices, which in turn helps in the proper functioning of the digestive tract.

Cuts down cholesterol

Popcorn is rich in fibre which can help get rid of excess cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels and arteries, thereby lowering your overall cholesterol levels. This in turn helps lower your chances of cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.

Controls blood sugar

The fibre-content in popcorn helps your body regulate blood sugar and insulin levels better than people with low levels of fibre. In case you are diabetic, it’s best to introduce one small cup of homemade popcorn into your daily diet to help reduce any fluctuations in your blood sugar levels.Do-It-YourselfWhile plain popcorn certainly seems like a healthy snack, its best to steer clear from pre-packaged microwave or flavoured popcorn. These contain artificial colours and flavour, unhealthy oils, additives and also a lot more calories, which in turn negates the positive impact of this snack. Say goodbye to those store-bought salty treats and instead make your very own healthy snack at home.

On a stovetop

You need: 1/2 cup popcorn kernels, two tablespoons canola, vegetable, or coconut oil.1. Put the popcorn kernels and oil into a large, deep pot.2. Cover with a secure lid and cook over medium-high heat until kernels just begin to pop.3. Shake the pot every 30 seconds or so. When popping subsides, remove pot from heat and transfer popcorn to a bowl. Add on herbs of your choice such as dill, curry or or sprinkle some spices such as red chilli or pepper powder.

In a microwave

You need: 1/4 cup popcorn kernels, 1/2 tablespoon oil and a paper lunch bag.1. Place the popcorn kernels and oil in a paper lunch bag.2. Fold the top edge so as to secure the bag.3. Microwave on high for about two minutes, or until kernels have mostly stopped popping.